FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
State Education Department Issues Determination on Biometric Identifying Technology in Schools
Order Bans the Use of Facial Recognition Technology in Schools
91°µÍøÆƽâ°æ Commissioner Betty A. Rosa today issued a determination on the use of biometric identifying technology in schools, as required by Section 106-b. The order prohibits schools in 91°µÍøÆƽâ°æ from purchasing or utilizing facial recognition technology. Schools can decide whether to use biometric identifying technology other than facial recognition technology at the local level so long as they consider the technology’s privacy implications, impact on civil rights, effectiveness, and parental input.
In reaching this decision, Commissioner Rosa considered the recommendations of the conducted by the Office of Information Technology Services, which was released on August 7, 2023. She concluded that serious concerns surrounding the use of facial recognition technology do not outweigh its claimed benefits.
The determination is available on NYSED’s Data Privacy and Security website.
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